The Three Generations of the Nissan Murano Mid-Size Crossover
The 2016 Nissan Murano
The mid-size crossover segment is a crowded one, and today’s offerings include many impressive vehicles that suit a wide range of drivers, from single city dwellers to suburban families, and even country-dwelling retirees. With so many cars on offer, it can be tricky to know which one to pick. While all crossovers in this segment have their pros and cons, the Nissan Murano is one worth serious consideration if you’re in the market.
The Nissan Murano is currently in its third generation, having received a complete makeover for the 2014 model year. Following its launch in 2002, the Murano was nominated for the “North American Truck of the Year” award in 2003, as well as being named the best premium mid-size SUV by AutoPacific. Since then, the Murano has only increased its fan following, with the most recent iteration being named an IIHS Top Safety Pick +, “Activity Vehicle of Texas” by the Texas Auto Writers Association, “Best 2-Row SUV for Families” and “For the Money” by U.S. News, and much more.
First Generation (2003 – 2007)
The 2003 Nissan Murano
The Nissan Murano first debuted in 2002 at the New York International Auto Show, and for years was the only crossover in the Japanese automaker’s lineup. The first-gen Murano came with a 3.5-liter V6 good for 245 horsepower and 246 lb-ft of torque, with standard FWD and optional AWD. Sales of the first-gen Murano ran from 2003 – 2007, and Nissan introduced the second-generation model at the 2007 LA Auto Show as a 2009 model.
Second Generation (2009 – 2014)
The 2009 Nissan Murano
Like the first-generation Murano, the second-gen model was popular with drivers, thanks to its updated exterior which now included a more aggressive front fascia and looks reminiscent to the smaller Nissan Rogue crossover. Inside, Nissan revamped the materials and replaced them with higher-quality versions, giving the Murano a more premium feel while still remaining affordable.
During the second-generation, Nissan also introduced the rather odd-looking (and, unsurprisingly, short-lived) Murano CrossCabriolet, a convertible version of the crossover that failed to make the splash Nissan was hoping for. The CrossCabriolet was eventually discontinued in 2014 due to poor sales.
Third Generation (2015 – Present)
The 2016 Nissan Murano
Nissan unveiled the third- and current-generation Murano at the 2014 New York Auto Show as a 2015 model. This new crossover has a floating roof design, an updated infotainment system, and better safety features than ever before. In 2016, Nissan introduced the Murano Hybrid, which comes with an electric motor paired to a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and up to 31 mpg on the highway. While this model is currently available in China, no release date has been given for the US or Europe.
Like all cars, the Nissan Murano is easily upgraded and personalized using auto parts and accessories. You can easily look for more information about these parts online.
If you’re looking for a mid-size crossover, you couldn’t do much better than the Nissan Murano, but other excellent and popular options in this segment include the Mazda CX-5, Subaru Forester, Ford Edge, and Jeep Grand Cherokee.
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